Legislation aimed at safeguarding animal welfare and safety won unanimous approval from the Massachusetts Senate, with Sen. Sal DiDomenico (D-Everett) among its supporters. The measure, known as S.2332 or “An Act to protect animal welfare and safety in cities and towns” (PAWS II), builds upon protections established through earlier PAWS law—an initiative that emerged following the 2014 Puppy Doe case.
According to Sen. DiDomenico, who serves as Assistant Majority Leader of the Massachusetts Senate, “I was proud to support this important piece of legislation that strengthens and adds to the animal safety and welfare protections created under the original PAWS bill,” “This bill sends a strong message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated, and we will continue working to ensure that all animals are treated humanely here in the Commonwealth.”
The legislation has backing from across the aisle. “The Puppy Doe animal torture case inspired strong legislative action designed to increase protections for animals and prevent animal cruelty and neglect. PAWS II builds on the foundations of our original law and will ensure that abuse is reported and enforced, that animal drownings are outlawed, and that our animal control laws reflect the seriousness of animal torture and abuse,” remarked Sen. Bruce Tarr (R-Gloucester), the Minority Leader who originally sponsored this bill.
Chairman Mark Montigny (D-New Bedford), recognized for his persistent advocacy on animal welfare matters, added his perspective: “Our commitment towards ending the cruel and inhumane treatment of innocent animals is steadfast, and today we have taken significant action to protect their safety and welfare,” “There is zero tolerance for such despicable brutality and today’s action by the Senate sends a clear message.”
Senate President Harriette L. Chandler (D-Worcester) also weighed in, stating “We do not tolerate animal cruelty in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,” “This legislation ensures that animals are treated humanely and that those who engage in animal cruelty are punished. One animal that dies of mistreatment is one animal too many.”
Through PAWS II, protections for animals will strengthen considerably. The bill mandates expanded reporting requirements, reinforces enforcement mechanisms for animal control statutes, and increases penalties for cruelty. Specifically, the legislation would:
- ensure abuse is reported;
- ensure efficient enforcement of animal control laws;
- prohibit the drowning of wild and domestic animals;
- prohibit engaging in sexual contact with an animal;
- remove automatic killing of animals involved in animal fighting;
- add animal crimes to the list of offenses that serve as the basis for a request for a determination of detention and or release upon conditions;
- prohibit discrimination against specific dog breeds; and
- require abandoned animal checks in vacant properties.
The House of Representatives will now review the bill for potential passage.